Minelab x-terra User Manual

1

Metal detecting is a fascinating and rewarding activity
enjoyed by people all over the world. By getting to know
your X-Terra you can become one of the many who find
valuable coins, relics and jewellery on a regular basis.

The X-Terra is a high-precision instrument incorporating
Minelab’s latest single frequency technology, VFLEX.

VFLEX processes a pure single frequency, ensuring
that you can enjoy the hobby at all times, confident
that you are using a highly-tuned and dependable
detector. In other words, a SERIOUS detector.

This pocket sized manual is designed to help both
the beginner and expert treasure hunter get the best
performance out of the X-Terra 30 or X-Terra 50.

* This asterisk will appear

throughout the manual,
indicating features available
on the X-Terra 50 model only.

1

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4

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8

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10
11
12
13
14

Back Cover

VFLEX Technolog

y

Assembling Your X-Terr

a

Connecting the Coi

l

Shaft Assembl

y

Armrest Assembl

y

Connecting the Control Bo

x

Coil Cable Assembl

y

Inserting Batterie

s

Ready for Us

e

Quick Start Referenc

e

Detecting Basics

Holding the Detecto

r

Sweeping the Coi

l

Introducing the Control Pane

l

Keypad Layou

t

Turning on the Detecto

r
LCD Layout
Detecting Exercise
Example Detections
How Detectors Work
Target ID
Discrimination Scale
Preset Discrimination Patterns
Choosing a Discrimination Pattern
X-Terra 30
X-Terra 50 / All Metal Shortcut
Pinpointin

g

Recovering the Targe

t

15
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26
27
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30

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34
36

3

Detailed Detector Operation

LCD Icon

s

Operatio

n
Selecting Menu Settings
Sensitivity
Adjusting Sensitivity
Volume
Adjusting Volume
Noise Cancel*
Choosing a Noise Cancel Channel*
Ground Balance*
Adjusting Ground Balance*
Editing Discrimination Patterns
Method

1
Method 2
Erasing Patterns
Factory Presets

Reference Information

Sounds
Error Messages
Battery Behaviour
Care of your X-Terra
Accessory Headphones
Protective Accessories
Accessory Coils
X-Terra Specifications
X-Terra Model Features
User Preference

s

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42

43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
52

54
55
56
57

58
60
62
64
66
68
69
70
71
72

Power
Supply

Audio

Transmit

LCD ReceiveKeypad

PRIMARY MICRO
(IN CONTROL BOX)
DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING
(DSP)
CODEC SIGNAL CONVERSION

The X-Terra dete ctors are Minelab’s first products
to incorporate V FLEX Technology.

VFLEX uses state of t he art di gital and mixed-sig nal
components to enhance standard single frequen cy
techno logy by replac ing most o f the anal ogue
circui try with digital si gnal processing. The small
amount of analo gue circuit ry still employed has
been very carefull y designed and calibrated to
obtai n the outs tanding s ensitivit y, st ability and
repeatabil ity requi red to match the performance
of the pro cessing in the digita l domain.

This radic al depar ture from traditiona l approach es
to met al detector design has been made possi ble
by advances in elec tronics that power p ersonal
digit al assistants, cell (mobi le) phones and
high- fidelity portable audio.

Analog Signal

Control Box

For th e X-Terra user, this precision means
depen dable per formance and improve d immunit y
to environmental conditions such as ground
miner alization, ele ctromagne tic interference
and te mperature variations .

VFLEX requires coils that a re accurate ly constructed
and c alibrated. Every tim e the dete ctor starts up,
the mi cro-controlle rs in the control box and the
coil e stablish commun ication through a digital
data link.

Infor mation abo ut the coil is s ent to the control box,
so the dete ctor ‘kn ows’ what t ype of co il is att ached
and c an set the correct operating parameters.

This optimizes t he perfo rmance, and also make s
the detector ‘ future pro of’, in that it w ill be ca pable
of op erating at different f requencie s* depending
on the ele ctronic p ropertie s of the co il.

Analog Signal

Coil

Precision VFLEX Signal

Standard VLF Signal

(Without VFLEX)

Transmit

Receive

SECONDARY MICRO
(IN COIL)
SENSING + TRANSMITTING
COIL TYPE, SIZE, FREQUENCY

6

Rubber washers (2)

Plastic wing nut

Plastic bolt

Armrest screw

Armrest strap

Velcro tabs (2)

Before assembling your X-Terra please check
that the package includes these parts:

Coil

Skidplate (fitted to coil)

Control box

Armrest

Stand

Lower shaft

Middle shaft

Upper shaft

Warranty card

Instruction manual

you’re holding it

:-)

7

8

Plug the two rubber washers into the holes
on either side of the lower shaft yoke.

Slide the yoke into the yoke bracket on top
of the coil. Ensure that the spring loaded
pin in the lower shaft is underneath.

Insert the plastic bolt through the yoke
and the yoke bracket.

Fasten with the plastic wing nut provided,
being careful not to damage the thread
of the bolt by over-tightening. This may
need to be loosened to adjust the coil to
a comfortable detecting angle.

The coil cable is directly wired into the
coil and is not removable. Any attempt to
disconnect this cable will void your warranty.

9

Ensure that the twistlocks of the shafts
are loosened by rotating them counter­clockwise.

Compress the spring loaded pin in the
lower shaft and slide it into the middle shaft
until the pin reaches the adjustment holes.
The pin will spring out and click into place.

Attach the middle shaft to the upper
shaft in the same way.

Once shafts are assembled, lock them in
position by rotating twistlocks clockwise.

The upper shaft assembly location uses
two spring loaded pins to strengthen the
joint, one on either side of the shaft

10

Place the armrest onto the top of the upper
shaft, lining up the central hole in the
armrest with a hole in the aluminium shaft.
Position the armrest to suit your arm length.

(Holding the Detector, pg. 15)

Insert the screw up through the stand, upper
shaft and armrest. Tighten the screw, being
careful not to overtighten and damage the
thread.

With the velcro side facing upwards, thread
the armrest strap through both slots in the
armrest. Ensure the end of the strap will
be fastened outwards from your arm.

The X-Terra is designed to be used in both the
left and right hand. This diagram shows the
velcro strap threaded outwards for the left arm.

10

11

Connecting

With the LCD facing up, push the control
box onto the end of the handle until it
fits into place.

The LCD window has a protective
film affixed to prevent scratching.
This may be removed when the
detector is fully assembled.

The control box may be easily removed
for packing and transport in a carry bag.

Disconnecting

Brace the detector firmly against
yourself, grasp the control box and
pull it away from the handle.

Wind the coil cable around the lower
and middle shaft enough times to take
up the slack.

Use the velcro tabs to keep the coil cable
in place against the shaft. It is recommended
that one tab is used on the lower shaft close
to the coil and the other tab on the middle
shaft before the cable reaches across to
the control box.

Align the coil plug and connect into
the socket in the back of the control box,
lightly tightening the retaining ring to
hold it in place.

12

13

The X-Terra uses 4 X AA batteries which
are not included with the detector.

(Battery

Behaviour, pg. 62)

Access the battery compartment via the
battery door located on the side of the
control box. Slide the battery compartment
door upwards with your thumb.

Place individual batteries into the
compartment as illustrated, ensuring
the positive (

+) and negative (–) contacts

match the diagram on the control box.

Close the battery door by pushing and
sliding it downwards.

If the detector does not turn on check the
battery orientation. The detector will not
be damaged if the batteries are inserted
incorrectly.

CONGRATULATIONS!
YOU HAVE SUCCESSFULLY
ASSEMBLED YOUR X-TERRA.
IT IS NOW READY FOR DETECTING!

14

15

Thread your arm through the armrest
and strap. Grasp the handle of the detector
and rest your forearm in the armrest.

Your elbow should sit just above the top
of the armrest. Lightly tighten the velcro
strap and secure it around your arm.

Shaft is the

correct length

Shaft is too short

The correct position of armrest and length
of shaft should allow you to swing the
coil in front of your body without any
uncomfortable stretching or stooping.

To adjust the length of the shafts, undo the
twistlocks, compress the spring pins of the
shafts and move them up or down to suit.
Once all shafts are clipped into position,
rotate twistlocks clockwise onto the shafts
until a firm clamping action is achieved.

(Shaft Assembly, pg. 9)

To adjust the position of the armrest
remove the armrest screw and move the
armrest and stand to the desired position.

(Armrest Assembly, pg.10)

Think of the detector as an extension of
your arm. It should be straight with your
forearm and feel light and comfortable
when you pick it up.

16

17

coil parallel to the ground

Once outside, practice sweeping the coil
over the ground in a side-to-side motion,
while walking forward slowly. Slightly overlap
the previous sweep to ensure a full ground
coverage. An approximate sweep speed is 3
seconds from left to right to left.

It is important to keep the coil close and
parallel to the ground at all times. This will
increase detection depth and response to
small objects. Avoid excessive brushing
of the coil on the ground, as this may result
in false signals and inaccurate target ID’s.

A variation in coil height at the end of each
swing may also cause confusing sounds and
reduce detection depth.

1” (2.5cm)

18

POWER turns the detector

on/off.

Accesses and scrolls through
detecting settings.

This button has two functions.
Assists in locating the exact
position of a target prior to
recovery (

PINPOINT).

Exits menu settings, and
returns to detection (

DETECT).

Adjusts settings and scrolls to
the left (

–) or right (+) through

the discrimination segments

.

Scrolls through the different
discrimination patterns.

Accepts or rejects certain
metals by turning on/off
individual discrimination
segments.

Toggles between the selected
discrimination pattern and
the all metal pattern

.

Activates the manual
adjustment to compensate
for different types of soil.

*

*

19

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

2

3

4

5

AL

50

30

50

19

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) area

20

There are many metallic objects inside
the house (e.g. nails in the floor, reinforcing
in the walls) that will result in overloading
the detector’s electronics. There may also
be interference from TV sets and other
household appliances. In this environment
the detector may give erratic performance
and numerous false signals.

If the detector emits an overload sound
and displays OL

(Error Messages, pg. 61) move the

coil away from the source of the overload.

It is best to only turn the detector on
when outside, away from sources
of electromagnetic disturbance.

Press POWER

A short start up sequence will display
and a tune will be heard.

Once on, the detector will be in automatic
detection. There will be no numeric
reading until a metal object is detected.

Overloading is not harmful to the
detectors electronics.

Many of the screen pictures in this
manual that refer to both models,
show the X-Terra 50 display only.

1

2

3

4

5

AL

This LCD layout is a representation to show
the differences between the two models. LCD
icons are never all shown at the same time.

30

1

2

3

4

5

AL

50

1

2

3

4

5

AL

21

Blank detection display.
There will be no numerical
reading until a detection
is made.

22

Pass the coil across the objects, one at a
time, and observe the LCD and the detector’s
sounds as it detects each object.

Note: If you are getting signals from a clear patch of

ground, there may be unknown buried metal objects.

Before attempting to pinpoint or recover
real targets it is important to understand
how to interpret the audio and visual
responses correctly.

If the detector is making popping and
crackling sounds and displaying numbers
when the coil is not over one of the metal
objects, try reducing the detector’s sensitivity

(pg. 44). Once stable, the detector will only

sound and display numbers when the coil
is passed over a target.

A good way to become familiar with
detecting is to test the detector against
a range of metal objects. This exercise
is a simple lesson on how the detector
interprets metal objects.

Gather a collection of different metal objects,
e.g. various coins, gold and silver jewellery,
a rusted nail, pull-tab, brass button and
aluminium foil.

Take the detector outside, away from known
electromagnetic fields or metal objects.

Lay objects in a line, sufficiently spaced apart
to allow the coil to pass between the objects.

This test exercise can be used when
adjusting the detector’s settings (Sensitivity,
pg. 44, Volume, pg. 46, Noise Cancel*, pg. 48,
Ground Balance*, pg. 50)

The X-Terra 50 has additional ways
of stabilising the detector’s signals for
different environments. (Noise Cancel*, pg.
48, Ground Balance*, pg. 50)

23

Don’t worry if the detector isn’t producing
a sound over the nail, this is because the
detector begins in the default pattern

1,

a setting which rejects signals from common
junk targets.

The X-Terra coil is waterproof.
(Care of Your X-Terra, pg. 64)

24

Discrimination Pattern
The factory preset pattern 1 rejects ferrous metals and
foil, and accepts non-ferrous metals. Patterns can be
edited and saved according to detecting preferences.

Audio
A detected non-ferrous target will give a medium

- high tone audio response.

Visual
A detected non-ferrous target will give a visual
indication within the non-ferrous section of the
discrimination scale and a positive target ID.

A detected target ID segment
(indicated on the diagram by a grey icon)
will flash (if accepted) quickly 3 times to
show its position on the discrimination
scale - just like a cursor on a computer
screen. The segment will continue to flash
slowly until another target ID segment is
detected.

1

2

4 icons to indicate
the targets depth
from the coil,
approx. 6-8” (15-20cm)

Non-ferrous coin

Medium
High

25

25

1

2

1 icon to indicate
the targets depth
from the coil,
approx. 0-2” (0-5cm)

Ferrous nail

All Metal Pattern
The all metal pattern turns off every
discrimination segment, allowing all metals
including ferrous targets to be detected.

Audio
A detected ferrous target will give a low tone
audio response.

Visual
A detected ferrous target will give a visual
indication within the ferrous section of the
discrimination scale and a negative target ID.

Further understanding of detector
basics and detailed detector
operation may be obtained from
the rest of this manual.

Low

Metal detectors work due to the fact that
metal is conductive. Metal detectors create
an electromagnetic field, which penetrates
the ground.

When the coil senses a change in this field
(caused by a metal object) it sends a signal
back to the control box which then alerts
the operator. Metal detectors react to the
size, shape and composition of objects.
Typically, the larger the object, the deeper
it can be detected.

The X-Terra uses a single frequency (7.5kHz)
as the standard operating frequency. This
frequency has the ability to penetrate deep
into the ground.

26

The frequency of a detector is the number
of times a signal is transmitted into the
ground and received back, per second
(measured in Hertz - Hz).

“BEEP!”

27

The X-Terra has a number of different icons
that have been designed to best represent and
identify the metal objects in the ground.

Target ID

Buried metal objects are referred to as targets.
As the coil is passed over a target, it detects
its conductivity and displays this as a number.
Target Identification (ID) is used to distinguish
one type of metal target from another.

Target ID numbers range from -4

to 44 on the
X-Terra 30 and -9 to 45 on the X-Terra 50.
Negative numbers represent ferrous targets and
positive numbers represent non-ferrous targets.

The last detected target ID stays on the
display until another

target is detected. If the
detector passes over a target that it rejects, the
display will return to a blank detection screen
represented by 2 dashes.

1

2

Discrimination segment

Another identifier of metal objects, each segment
refers to a certain type of metal signal. Segments
can be turned off (to accept targets) or turned on (to
reject targets) which in turn accepts or rejects signals
from the corresponding metal objects.

(A grey icon on the diagrams in this manual
represents a flashing icon on the detector.)

Target ID

The numeric identifier
of a particular metal object
underneath the ground.

Depth indicator

A guide to how deep a metal
object is under the ground.
The more arrows displayed,
the deeper the object is likely
to be from the coil.

28

1

2

Rejected segments appear as black, accepted
segments disappear altogether (allowing signals
from metal objects). The combinations of accepted
and rejected segments are referred to as patterns.

Desired and undesired targets may appear
anywhere along the discrimination scale, e.g.

Desired ferrous target - Canadian coin
Undesired ferrous target - iron nail
Desired non-ferrous target - gold coin
Undesired non-ferrous target - pull tab

Discrimination segments can be accepted
or rejected, in turn accepting or rejecting
certain targets.

In addition to the target ID, targets are also
represented as a particular segment on a
linear scale at the bottom of the display.

Each discrimination segment represents
a level of conductivity and ferrous content.

Non ferrous targets are those that have no
iron content, such as gold, silver, copper
and bronze. Non-ferrous targets are often
higher in conductivity and are represented
by the right hand side segments.

Ferrous targets are those that contain iron,
for example nails and scrap metal. They
generally have a low conductivity and are
represented by the left hand side segments.

The more segments available, the more separate target IDs available.

50

15 non-ferrous

3 ferrous

30

11 non-ferrous

1 ferrous

The X-Terra 30 has 12 segments.

The target IDs range from -4 up to 44, increasing in steps of 4.

The X-Terra 50 has 18 segments.

The target IDs range from -9 to 45, increasing in steps of 3.

29

30

The combinations of accepted and rejected
segments are referred to as patterns. The
X-Terra has preset discrimination patterns
that have been customised to detect general
desired targets such as coins and jewellery.

The X-Terra 30 has an all metal pattern and 1
preset pattern. The X-Terra 50 has an all metal
pattern and

2 preset patterns.

Patterns 1 and 2 can be edited to create your
own custom discrimination patterns. Edited
patterns are automatically saved.

(Editing Discrimination Patterns, pg. 54, 55)
(Erasing Patterns, pg. 56)

Patterns are an important part
of detecting as they can save you
from digging for unwanted targets.

1

1

3

1

Example targets only

Example targets only

Example targets only

30

31

30

50

Pattern 1

Accepts signals from non-ferrous targets,
e.g. gold and silver coins

(X-Terra 30 IDs: 8, 12, 16, 20,

24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44). (X-Terra 50 IDs: 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24,

27, 30, 33, 36, 39, 42, 45).

Rejects ferrous objects and non-ferrous
aluminium foil

(X-Terra 30 IDs: -4, 4) (X-terra 50 IDs:

-9, -6, -3, 3).

All Metal Pattern

Accepts signals from all types of metals,
everything from jewellery to rusty nails

(all target IDs).

No target signals are rejected

50

Pattern 2*

Accepts signals from most non-ferrous
targets

(target IDs 9, 12, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39, 42, 45).

Rejects those from ferrous objects and some
non-ferrous targets, e.g. aluminium foil and
pull tabs

(target IDs -9, -6, -3, 3, 6, 15, 18).

30

50

31

1

2

1

2

1

1

2

1

2

On the X-Terra 30 PATTERNS
toggles between the all metal
pattern (AM) and pattern 1.

32

The all metal pattern
cannot be edited.

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

3

The all metal pattern
cannot be edited.

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

1

2

33

On the X-Terra 50 PATTERNS
toggles between pattern 1
and pattern 2.

The X-Terra 50 also has an all
metal shortcut. This toggles
between the selected
pattern and all metal.

34

During normal detection, the X-Terra
operates with discrimination patterns. When
a target signal is heard, it is an advantage
to identify the target’s exact position. This
is determined by using

PINPOINT.

Enabling pinpoint instructs the X-Terra to
temporarily disengage discrimination and
become a non-motion detector. Targets
normally discriminated against will emit a
signal when beneath the coil.

In pinpoint, the detector gives a continuous
audio response as opposed to a single beep
while detecting. This continuous response
indicates the strength of the target signal
directly below the coil.

The pinpoint audio response is tone and
volume modulated. The difference in tone
and volume produced will help in locating
the targets position and depth.

low high

high

low

low

tone

volume

coil

this target will

produce a loud,

high tone sound

this target will

produce a quiet,

low tone sound

The detector may become noisy if left in
pinpoint. If this occurs, return to normal
detection before trying pinpoint again.

35

1

2

1

2

3

4

5

AL

Once the approximate target location is
known, move the coil outside of that area
and press

PINPOINT.

Sweep the coil over the target location. The
menu scale segments on the LCD indicate
how close the target is to the center of the
coil. The detector will only produce a high
volume when the center-ring of the coil is
directly above the target.

Taking note of the detector’s response, reduce
the span of each successive pass of the coil
until you are confident of the target’s location.
Make a mental note of the position or, if the
ground is sandy, mark a line with your shoe
or a digging tool.

Move to one side so that you can pass the
coil over the target at a right angle to your
initial direction.

When the detector sounds

you should know exactly where to dig.

If you have difficulty pinpointing the target,
press PINPOINT DETECT again to take the detector
out of pinpoint and then return to Step 1.

35

36

A trowel, knife or small spade are good
tools for recovering targets.

Once a target has been located, clear the
surface of loose material and check again
for a signal. If there is no signal then the
target is amongst the surface material. In
this case, search the surface material until
the target is located. If the target is still in
the ground, check again with pinpoint.

The aim, when digging, is to leave the area
of ground exactly as you found it. Using a
sharp tool, cut a neat portion of grass or soil
and place it on a plastic sheet. This prevents
the material being scattered around and
allows the hole to be refilled.

A long blunt-tipped screwdriver is a good
tool for soft ground. Probe the soil to find
the exact location of a target, if it is very
shallow, simply prise it out.

Ask for permission before searching on
private property.

37

Check the hole for the target. If it is not in
the hole, place the detector on the ground
with the coil flat, pick up a handful of soil
and pass it over the coil. Be sure not to wear
rings, bracelets or a watch which will produce
a signal. Repeat this procedure until the
target is located.

Ensure that no other targets remain, then
refill the hole. All soil and portions of grass
on the plastic sheet should be returned
to the hole as neatly as possible. Step lightly
on the soil to compact it.

Leaving holes, or a scarred area may result
in action being taken to prevent the use
of metal detectors. Please ensure that you
leave an area of ground as it was found.
Try to take all rubbish.

38

1

2

Target ID

Target signals contain both ferrous and
conductivity information. This is digitally
processed and results in a number being
displayed that distinguishes between
different types of metal.

Target ID numbers range from -4 to 44
on the X-Terra 30 and -9 to 45 on the X-Terra

50. Negative numbers represent ferrous
targets and positive numbers represent
non-ferrous targets.

Numeric ID

These numbers have another function.
They are also used when adjusting the
menu settings (sensitivity, volume, noise
cancel*

and ground balance*) showing

the numerical value selected.

5

AL

39

All Metal

AM indicates that the all metal pattern
has been selected. This pattern has no
discrimination and will allow signals from all
types of metals, both ferrous and non-ferrous.

Patterns

Preset discrimination patterns are used to
suit different search preferences. X-Terra 30
has

1 pattern, X-Terra 50 has 2 patterns

(Preset Discrimination Patterns, pg. 30).

Depth Indicator

The depth indicator is a relative guide to how
deep a target is. The more arrows displayed,
the deeper the target is likely to be.

1 arrow is approx. 0-2” (0-5 cm)
2 = 2-4” (5-10 cm)
3 = 4-6” (10-15 cm)
4 = 6-8” (15-20 cm)
5 = 8-10” (20-25 cm)

*

1

2

1

2

1

2

1

2

3

1

2

Shallow target

Deep target

Actual depth will be more
accurate for coins than junk
ferrous targets

40

Menu

The X-Terra has a list of settings (sensitivity,
volume, noise cancel* and ground balance*

)
that can be adjusted to customise it for
your own personal preferences.

(Note: Ground
balance cannot be accessed via the menu key, even
though it is in the menu list on the LCD.)

Menu scale

Consists of 10 segments and a circular
scale line. This works in conjunction with
the numeric ID to show the value of the
selected setting adjustment. The menu scale
also works with pinpoint to indicate how
close the coil is to the target.

Pinpoint

Indicates that pinpoint is activated.

5

AL

*

On the X-Terra 50, sensitivity and ground
balance* have ranges of 1-20, and volume has
a range of 0-20. In these cases each segment
of the menu scale represents two numbers.

41

Headphones are not included with the
X-Terra (Accessory Headphones, pg. 66)

Reject Identification

This icon appears when rejecting a
discrimination segment. It disappears when
accepting a discrimination segment

(pg. 54, 55).

Battery

This icon indicates how much power is left
in the batteries

(pg. 62).

Headphones:

This icon indicates that the headphones are
connected and that the headphone volume
has been selected

(pg. 66).

1

2

1

2

42

1

2

Target ID

Discriminated
(rejected)
segment

Depth

Detected
(accepted)
segment

Detection

The target ID, discrimination segments and
depth automatically translate detected
signals. The last detected target ID stays
on the display until another is detected.
If the detector passes over a target that it
rejects, the display will return to a blank
detection screen represented by 2 dashes.

After exiting settings using

PINPOINT DETECT,

the last detected target ID will disappear
and the depth icons will flash in sequence
until a new target ID is detected.

42

To access the menu settings, press MENU

SELECT repeatedly to scroll down through

the adjustable settings.

Settings

The X-Terra has a range of settings that
should be adjusted to ensure optimum
performance in different environments.
These settings can be accessed from the
menu, or with shortcuts available on the
X-Terra 50.

The X-Terra operates in two display states – Detection and Settings.

43

1

2

1

2

1

3
4
5

Exits Settings, and
returns to a blank
detection display

Detection

Settings

1

3

4

5

AL

1

3

4

5

AL

44

The X-Terra detectors are highly sensitive and
therefore have a wide sensitivity adjustment
range. It is important to set the correct
sensitivity level for your detecting conditions.

Sensitivity is the detector’s level of response
to a target and its environment. Real targets
are interpreted as distinct beeps. Interference
or false targets are interpreted as

crackling or

popping noises.

Tiny ferrous junk targets may be detected
when the sensitivity is set to a high level. The
detector will also be affected by minerals in
certain soils and signals from other electric
appliances

.

Some experimentation with the sensitivity
may be required for different areas. For
beginners, start with a low setting and
increase progressively.

Decreasing the X-Terra’s sensitivity may
help stabilise the detector, reducing false
signals and interference, and assisting in
differentiating between signals caused by soil
mineralisation and those of metal targets.

Choose the highest stable sensitivity setting to
ensure the detectors’ optimum performance.

For beach detecting, a setting below 10
may be required. In high trash areas, such
as modern parks, a setting below 6 may
be required, especially when searching for
shallow coins (X-Terra 50 settings).

X-Terra 30

Sensitivity range = 0-10
Factory preset = 6

X-Terra 50

Sensitivity range = 0-20
Factory preset = 12

The highest sensitivity settings,
(7-10 = X-Terra 30)
(15-20 = X-Terra 50)
should only be used in the quietest,
most stable conditions.

45

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46

Volume is the level of sound the detector
gives when a target is detected. The volume
control limits the potential loudness of target
signals.

The X-Terra has proportional target signal
volume. The sound produced by a distant
target starts softly. As you get closer, the
volume level increases rapidly until it reaches
the maximum level that has been set.

The sound produced by the detector
in pinpoint or ground balance will vary
in volume and tone depending on the
signal strength (from a target or ground
mineralisation). This volume range is
proportional to the maximum volume setting.

The X-Terra is able to save separate settings
for both the speaker volume and headphone
volume, switching from one to the other
as soon as the headphones are connected

(Accessory Headphones, pg. 66)

.

Set the speaker volume without headphones
connected. Set the headphone volume with
the headphones connected. Use the exercise

(pg. 22)

with different targets to confirm both

the speaker and headphone volume settings.

When the detector battery is low (indicated by
the low battery icon) the speaker volume limit
will be reduced. This saves battery power and
extends detecting time.

You may choose to override this and increase
the volume limit, but you then risk the
detector shutting down earlier.

X-Terra 30

Volume range = 0-10
Factory preset = 7

X-Terra 50

Volume range = 0-20
Factory preset = 15

47

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2

1

2

1

3

4

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AL

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4
5

48

There is no loss in depth or sensitivity if
the noise cancel channel is changed.

The detector may become noisy or erratic
due to electrical interference from powerlines,
electrical equipment or other detectors
operating close by. This interference is
interpreted as a crackling or popping noise.

Noise Cancel

* allows you to change the noise
cancel channel so that you experience less
interference. Three channels are available,
represented by the numbers -1, 0 and 1 and
are also indicated on the menu scale.

It is best to choose a channel with the coil
in the detection (horizontal) position because
interference received in a vertical position may
be different from the interference received
in the horizontal position.

The coil should be held in the air and away
from large targets when changing channels.

Noise cancel channels = -1, 0, 1
Factory preset noise cancel channel = 0

49

1

2

1

2

1

3

4

5

AL

1

3

4

5

AL

1

3

4

5

AL

Menu scale
segments will
flash for 3
seconds while
calibrating the
channel

x2

50

Ground balancing the detector reduces
false detections and enables good targets
to be displayed and heard correctly.

Ground balance settings affect both normal
discrimination detection and pinpoint
operation.

If there is difficulty ground balancing in
an area with the X-Terra 50, try reducing
sensitivity

(pg. 44).

The X-Terra 30 has a fixed ground balance
that allows adequate operation over most
types of soils.

The X-Terra 50 has an adjustable

ground

balance

which helps in compensating

for false signals.

When the detector is unbalanced, it will
detect targets, but it may also register false
detections due to ground mineralisation.
These false detections are displayed as -9
in all metal or two dashes when using the
factory preset patterns. This will cause good
targets to be displayed only briefly and with
clipped sound.

When detecting on the beach, adjusting
ground balance may not give significant
improvements. Try adjusting sensitivity
and altering patterns for best results.

Ground balance range = 0-20
Factory preset = 6

51

Highly mineralised soil may produce false
signals and distract from real targets.

Mineralised ground and ‘hot rocks’
may register as -9 when detecting in
all metal. This is more likely to happen
at high sensitivity settings and with an
unbalanced detector.

4” (10 cm)

Using the detector in all metal, find a clear area
of ground without any targets.

Hold the coil parallel and 4” (10 cm) above the
ground. Select

GROUND BALANCE*. A constant hum

known as the ground balance tone will sound
when the coil is held steady.

Continuously lower and raise the coil towards
and away from the ground and listen to the
ground balance tone. Try to lower the coil as close
to the ground as possible without touching it.

Adjust the ground balance using + and

-,
listening for minimum volume which will
occur during the transition from low to high.

If the tone is low, increase the ground balance
setting using

+, if the tone is high, decrease

the setting using

-. The menu scale and numeric

ID will indicate the chosen setting.

52

If ground balance is in between two
numbers, select the lowest number.

53

High

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AL

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3

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AL

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3

4

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AL

Low

Medium
quiet

1

2

1

2

The detector’s preset discrimination patterns
can be edited to create custom patterns.

Method 1 - to reject a specific target
ID using an actual target

In detection, a discrimination segment
will flash, indicating its position on the
discrimination scale and the target’s ID
number will appear on the LCD.

Press

ACCEPT REJECT to reject that target ID.

The discrimination segment and

X icon

will appear and the target ID number will
disappear to indicate the rejected ID.

Check that the target ID has been rejected
by detecting again. There should be no audio
response from that target ID.

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

2

54

1

2

3

4

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AL

Method 2 - to reject a specific target ID
using + –

In detection, use + and - to scroll through
and select the ID you want to modify. The
flashing segment and the target ID numbers
will indicate the selected ID.

Press

ACCEPT REJECT to either accept or reject

that ID. The discriminated segment and the

X

icon will appear (become shaded) if rejected.
The segment and the

X icon will disappear

if accepted.

1

2

3

ACCEPT REJECT toggles between

accepting and rejecting targets.

1

2

55

The all metal pattern cannot be edited.

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

2

3

4

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AL

1

2

Press and hold Press once

56

Custom patterns are saved
when the X-Terra is switched off.
To erase custom patterns and
return to preset patterns:

Turn the detector off.

While pressing and holding

PATTERNS, turn the detector back

on, by pressing power once.

During the start up sequence,
release

PATTERNS.

After the start up sequence,
the patterns erased message
(PE) will appear for 3 seconds
to indicate that the current
patterns have been erased and
returned to the preset patterns

.

1

56

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2

3

4

5

AL

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2

3

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AL

1

2

The settings sensitivity, volume,
noise cancel* and ground balance
are saved when the X-Terra is
switched off. To return to the
preset menu values:

Turn the detector off.

While pressing and holding

MENU SELECT, turn the detector

back on, by pressing

POWER once.

During the start up sequence,
release

MENU SELECT.

After the start up sequence, the
factory preset message (FP), will
appear for 3 seconds to indicate
that sensitivity, volume, noise
cancel* and ground balance*
have returned to the preset values.

Press and hold Press once

57

58

Start Up Sequence

When the detector is turned on, there is
a short three note tune during its start up
sequence.

Positive Acknowledgement

The detector emits a short beep for
every accepted key press.

Negative Acknowledgement

The detector emits a low double beep
to indicate an invalid keypress.

Completed

A three note tune indicates the completion
of a function (e.g. noise cancel* channel
calibration).

Patterns Erased / Factory Preset

A six note tune will announce when
these settings are complete.

Error

A six note tune will sound to indicate
a detector error

(Error Messages, pg. 60).

Overload

If the coil is passed across a large shallow
target, the detector will give a repeating
buzzing sound. This indicates that the
target signal is too strong for the detector
to interpret.

Low Battery Signal

When the battery power becomes low,
there will be a short announcement tune
(descending tones) every 60 seconds.

Low Battery Shutdown

A long announcement tune (descending
tones) will sound just before the detector
shuts down.

59

Target Response

This is the sound given by the detector when
a target is located and not discriminated
against (rejected). Generally a target that
is highly conductive (e.g. a large silver coin)
emits a high tone beep. A low tone beep
is produced for ferrous targets.

Pinpoint Response

When in pinpoint, the detector emits a
variable tone, that increases in pitch and
volume as the coil gets closer to the target.

Noise

A random jittery sound indicates that the
detector is picking up external interference.
Sensitivity or noise cancel* should be
adjusted.

False Detections

A partial or chopped non-repeatable signal.
Two dashes will indicate on the LCD to
indicate a rejected target.

30

50

The X-Terra 50 discrimination segments are

separated by 4 different tones of sound

The X-Terra 30 discrimination segments are

separated by

3 different tones of sound

Low

Medium High

Medium
Low

Medium
High

Low High

60

1

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

2

3

4

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AL

Coil Unplugged

The coil has been
disconnected from
the detector.

Coil Error

The coil is not
communicating
with the control box.

1

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

2

3

4

5

AL

The menu scale line
icon will slowly flash
until the coil is plugged
back in.

The menu scale line
icon will slowly flash
until a standard coil is
connected.

Turn the detector off.
Send the coil and
detector to be repaired.

Turn the detector off
before connecting a
standard coil.

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

2

3

4

5

AL

1

Coil Incompatible

The coil is communicating
with the control box
but the detector is not
recognising it.

1

1

2

3

4

5

AL

Overload

The detector has
received a signal that
is too strong for it to
interpret. This will
appear until there is no
more overload (pg. 20).

The menu scale line
icon will slowly flash.

61

Take the coil away
from the source of
overload.

Turn the detector off
before connecting a
standard coil.

Once all errors are resolved the detector will
begin operation with a blank detection screen.

62

62

The X-Terra is capable of using different types
of AA batteries:

1.5 V Alkaline

1.5 V Carbon

1.5 V Lithium (non-rechargeable)

1.2 V NiMH (rechargeable)

1.2 V NiCad (rechargeable)

The adjacent graph is a representation of how
both types of batteries may discharge over
time. How the detector is used will affect how
long the batteries last for.

When the detector battery is low, the speaker
volume limit will be reduced, to save battery
power and extend detecting time.
The headphone volume is not affected.

Overvoltage

If the battery voltage is too high,
(above 8 V) the battery icon will flash
and the detector will shut down.

Full

2 black segments inside the outline.

Half

1 black segment inside the outline.

Low

The icon will begin to flash for
a period of time and there will be
audio announcements every 60
seconds before the detector finally
shuts down.

The use of headphones will increase
battery life.

Rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries will
give a combined voltage above 8 V and
therefore cannot be used with the X-Terra

63

1.5 V Alkaline

1.2 V NiMH/NiCad

63

64

The X-Terra is a high quality electronic
instrument, finely engineered and packaged
in a durable housing. Taking proper care
of your X-Terra is common sense.

The X-Terra’s storage temperature is

-4˚F to 149˚F (-20˚C to

+65˚C) and the
operating temperature is 32˚F to 113˚F
(0˚C

to 45˚C). Do not leave the detector
in excessive heat or cold for longer than
necessary. Try to avoid leaving it in a
closed trunk or in a car sitting in sunlight.
Covering it when not in use will help
protect it.

The coil can be submersed in water
up to 20” (0.5m), yet the control box is
not waterproof. Although it has been
designed to be weather resistant, it is
advised to protect the control box in
wet conditions. A protective control box
cover is available.

(Protective Accessories,

pg. 68

)

Never allow the detector to come into
contact with gasoline or other petroleum
based liquids.

Keep the detector clean and dry
and avoid getting sand and grit into
the shafts or fastenings (e.g. yoke,
twistlocks). Do not use solvents to
clean the detector. Use a damp cloth
with mild soap detergent.

65

Do not use rechargeable Lithium Ion
batteries as their voltage is too high.
Non rechargeable Lithium batteries
may be used.

The display window may be prone to
scratching or damage if not treated with
care. A protective control box cover is
available. (Protective Accessories, pg. 68

)

Old, flat or faulty batteries may cause
many detector problems, through
electrolyte leakage. Take the batteries
out if the detector will not be used for
long periods of time (e.g. more than 1
week). Ensure that only good quality
batteries are used and that they are
replaced when the low battery signal

Previous Minelab coils will not function
with the X-Terra detector.

Ensure the coil cable is in good
condition and not subject to undue
stress (particularly where it is connected
to the coil).

Always remember to turn off the
detector before changing coils.

66

Headphones have many advantages.

They block out external noise such as wind
and traffic, allowing you to listen more
closely to target signals. Headphones also
minimise disturbance to other people in
the area and they extend battery life.

The X-Terra is able to save separate settings
for both the speaker volume and headphone
volume, switching from one to the other
as soon as the headphones are connected.

(Volume, pg. 46)

Ensure that the headphone volume does
not reach an extremely loud level. This
may increase the risk of hearing damage.

67

Connecting Headphones

Always use headphones with a ¼“ jack.

Open the rubber headphone cover located
on the left hand side of the control box.

Plug the headphone jack into the socket.

When the detector is turned on, the
headphones icon will appear on the LCD to
indicate that the headphones are connected.

When not using headphones, keep the
rubber cover closed to protect the control
box electronics from moisture and dust.

68

Skid Plate

A skid plate comes as standard with the
detector. If it wears out from excessive
sweeping along the ground, accessory
skidplates are available for purchase.

Environmental Cover

Protects the control box from
environmental conditions
such as rain and dirt.

69

Accessory coils come in different
types (Double D and Concentric),
sizes and frequencies*. These coils
are suitable for different ground
conditions and specific targets.

To attach an accessory coil:

Turn the detector off using POWER.

Follow the steps of

Coil Cable Assembly (pg. 12)

and

Connecting the Coil (pg. 8) in reverse order

to disconnect the coil from the detector.

Repeat the same steps in the correct order
to connect a different coil.

Turn the detector on using

POWER

70

Transmission

Technology

Coil

Visual Display

Audio

Search Mode

Discrimination

Batteries (Not Included)

Padded Armrest

Length Extended

Length Unextended

Weight (Excluding Batteries)

Optional Accessories

Patents

Single Frequency Sine Wave

VFLEX

9” Concentric 7.5

kHz

Positive Reflective LCD

Internal Speaker and Headphone Output

Motion

Detector

Multi Segment Accept/Reject

4 X AA Alkaline/Carbon/Lithium or NiMH/NiCad

4 Position Adjustable with Stand & Armrest

56” (1.42m)

48” (1.22m)

2.9lbs (1.3kg)

Headphones, Skidplates, Environmental Cover, Coils

Pending

In the interest of product improvement,
Minelab reserves the right to make changes without notice.

71

X-Terra 50

2 (Standard 7.5 kHz, High 18.75 kHz)

2 + All Metal

18

3

15

Steps of 3 (-9, -6, -3, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18,

21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39, 42, 45)

Enhanced

5

1-20

3 (-1, 0, 1)

Manual ( 0-20)

0-20

4

8 + Power

70

Dulux Navy 50282

Model Features

Coil Frequency Options
Discrimination Patterns
All Metal Shortcut
Discrimination Scale (Segments)

Ferrous
Non-ferrous

Numeric Range (Target ID Numbers)

Depth
Depth Indication Icons
Sensitivity Adjustment
Noise Cancel Channels
Ground Balance Adjustment
Pinpoint (Audio & Visual)
Volume Adjustment
Audio Tones for Targets
Low Battery Audio Alarm
User Interface Keys
LCD Icons
Shaft Colour

X-Terra 30

1 (Standard 7.5 kHz)

1 + All Metal

12

1

11

Steps of 4 (- 4, 4, 8, 12, 16,

20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44)

Standard

5

1-10

Fixed

0-10

3

6 + Power

64

Dulux Wineberry 51046

72

50

30

72

Turn on (pg. 20)

Choose a discrimination pattern (pg. 32, 33)

Adjust sensitivity (pg. 45) and volume (pg. 47)

Choose a noise cancel* channel

(pg. 49)

Adjust ground balance* (pg. 52)

Begin detecting! (pg. 24)

These quick start instructions allow you to begin
detecting straight away and find important
reference information for setting up your X-Terra.

Minelab however encourages all users to read the
entire manual to ensure a complete understanding
of all features and functions your X-Terra offers.

* Available on X-Terra 50 model only.

The World Leader in Metal Sensing Technology

From our origins in 1985, Minelab have specialised in
advanced electronics technologies. Our competitive
advantage was created almost immediately with a highly
competent and innovative Research and Development
team, inspired by the genius of Mr. Bruce Candy.

This commitment to innovation has enabled us to
successfully market feature-packed Consumer coin and
treasure detectors enjoyed by hobbyists worldwide as well
as high quality gold detectors used by both professionals
and amateurs. Minelab’s advanced technology is also
incorporated in detection equipment designed for military
and humanitarian de-mining projects throughout the world.

Today Minelab has manufacturing, distribution and
customer service operations in Australia, Europe
and the United States, and is an ISO 9001 Quality Endorsed
Company. ISO 9001 is a worldwide quality standard
certification that ensures the highest level of product
quality for our customers.

For further product information
and detecting tips, refer to:

Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

Item Number: 4901 - 0055
Revision: 1.1

Please note:

Since t here may be a variety of options
avail able for th is detecto r, equ ipment
may va ry accordi ng to the mo del or
items o rdered wit h your dete ctor. Cert ain
descr iptions an d illustr ations may a lso
differ (in this manu al) from th e exact m odel
that yo u purchase d. In addi tion, Mine lab
reser ves the ri ght to respo nd to ongoi ng
techn ical progr ess by intro ducing chan ges
in des ign, equip ment and tec hnical
featur es at any tim e.

For Consumers within the European Union:
Do not dispose of this equipment in general
household waste.

The crossed out wheeled bin indicated
on this equipment is an indicator that
this unit should not be disposed of in
general household waste, but recycled
in compliance with local government
regulations or environmental requirements.

Please dispose of this equipment via a
recycling service or centre, or by returning
the unit to the respective Minelab or Halcro
outlet as appropriate for your unit. This will
enable the equipment to be disposed of
in an environmentally safe manner.

Disposal of unwanted electronic equipment
in landfilled waste may contribute to
adverse long term environmental effect
due to the leaching of contaminating and
toxic substances contained within some
electronic equipment.

Working for a Cleaner,
Greener Future

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH
PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES

Disclaimer: The Minelab metal detector
discussed in this operating manual has been
expressly designed and manufactured as
a quality hobbyist metal detector and is
recommended for use in coin, treasure and
general metal detection in non-hazardous
environments. This metal detector has not
been designed for use as a mine detector or
as a live munitions detection tool.

Please return the
tear off section
of your warranty
card to Minelab
as soon as possible.

Today’s Date

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